Which city is cheaper, Florence or Portofino?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Portofino vs. Florence for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples
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Should you visit Portofino or Florence?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Should I visit Portofino or Florence? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.
Portofino
Portofino is a glamorous, picturesque, and breathtaking seaside village. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come here because of it's amazing beauty. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food.
Florence
Florence is a alluring, historical, and artistic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.
How is Portofino different from Florence?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Is Portofino or Florence better for Museums and Historical Sights?
Both Portofino and Florence offer a variety of museums and places of interest, but Florence generally has more to choose from.
The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Florence are among the most recognizable in the world. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.
While most people don't head to Portofino specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The village is mostly about soaking up the atmosphere, but you can also visit sights such as Sun Church of St. George and Cervara Abbey.
Is Portofino or Florence better for Food?
Dining out in both Portofino and Florence can be an enjoyable experience.
Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Portofino. Located by the sea, you'll enjoy tons of great seafood here. Make sure you try the mussels, swordfish, and salt cod.
Known for it's food scene, Florence is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.
Is Portofino or Florence better for Nightlife?
Evening events are similar in both Portofino and Florence.
Portofino has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Most of the nightlife is found around Piazzetta (Oliveri Square) and Molo Umberto I. Happy hours (aperitivo) start around 5pm or 6pm and then as the evening continues, the party often moves to Paraggi Beach.
If you're looking for night time activities Florence has a few options to choose from. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.
Is Portofino or Florence better for its Old Town?
It's fun to wander around the old towns in both Portofino and Florence.
Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Portofino. Despite evolving into a famous resort town, Portofino still holds on to its fishing village charm.
With a famous historical old-town, Florence offers plenty to see. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.
Is Portofino or Florence better for Shopping?
Both Portofino and Florence are good shopping destinations.
Portofino is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The quaint cobblestone streets are lined with high end boutiques that target the opulent jet-setter crowd that frequents Portofino. Much of the shopping is around Martiri dell'Olivetta Square.
Florence is well-known for its shopping. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.
Is Portofino or Florence better for Families?
Kids will enjoy a visit to either Portofino or Florence.
Portofino is not the most family-friendly destination. The town has a picturesque setting and some beautiful pebbly beaches. It's fun for kids to run around the town, explore by kayak, or play in the waters edge.
Florence offers lots of family activities. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.
Is Portofino or Florence better for Couples?
With fun activities for couples, both Portofino and Florence make for a good place to visit.
Portofino makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Set beautifully against the ocean's edge, this famous Italian town makes for a truly romantic holiday. Ogle the mega yachts in the harbor and then wander the charming streets while you soak in the atmosphere.
Florence has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.
Is Portofino or Florence better for Public Transit?
Both Portofino and Florence offer public transit options.
Public transit is generally limited in Portofino. The closet train stations are Santa Margherita Ligure and Camogli. You can catch a bus from the Santa Margherita train station. There are also some ferry options.
While Florence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system.
Is Portofino or Florence a more walkable city?
Portofino and Florence both are comparable when exploring on foot.
It is easy to get around Portofino on foot. It's easy to walk around the village and then explore the countryside on one of the nearby trails.
Florence is a very easy seaside village to get around on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.
Portofino and Florence: Pros and Cons
Portofino
Pros- Good for couples and romance
- Small town charm
- Impressive beauty
- Quaint atmosphere
- Less museums and historical sights
- Less family-friendly
- Less popular with backpackers
Florence
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Impressive beauty
Should I spend more time in Florence or Portofino?
How long in Portofino or Florence?
Both Portofino and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than Portofino.
The ideal length of time for a trip to Portofino is 2-5 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Florence is 2-7 days.
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How many days in Portofino or Florence? Ideal Length of StayPortofino 2-5Florence 2-7
One day in Portofino or Florence?
Portofino is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.
You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Florence. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
A weekend in Portofino or Florence?
Portofino is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this seaside village makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Portofino, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered around the area.
You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Florence. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.
Five days in Portofino or Florence?
Portofino is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Portofino, five days is sufficent for most. The entire area has lots to do.
You'll find nightlife and food around the historical city of Florence. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.
A week in Portofino or Florence?
Portofino is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This seaside village offers something for everyone.
Florence is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Florence, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayPortofino €261Florence €120
The average daily cost (per person) in Portofino is €261, while the average daily cost in Florence is €120. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Portofino and Florence in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personPortofino €152Florence €69
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomPortofino €304Florence €138
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Portofino €18Florence €18
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portofino
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portofino:
- Private Transfer from Portofino to Rimini (RMI) Airport: $1,512
- Private Transfer from Portofino to Firenze (FLR) Airport: $952
- Portofino - Genoa Airport (GOA) / Private Departure Car Transfer: $100
- Portofino – Genoa / Private Car Transfer: $100
- Portofino - Genoa Airport (GOA) / Private Departure Car Transfer: $56
- Portofino – Genoa / Private Van Transfer: $56
Typical Local Transportation prices in Florence
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Florence:
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Taxi Ride Within City€8.00
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Taxi from Airport€25
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In City Parking (Full Day)€30
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Bus Pass (Full Day)€5.00
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Bus From Airport€5.00
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Florence
Also for Florence, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Florence Hotel to Airport: Shared Departure Transfer (max 8 people): $21
- Shared Departure Transfer: Florence Hotels to Florence Airport: $26
- Private Arrival Transfer from Peretola Airport (FLR) to Florence City Center: $30
- Private Departure Transfer from Florence City Center to Peretola Airport (FLR): $30
- Private Departure Transfer: Florence Train Station: $33
- Transfer in private vehicle from Florence City to Amerigo Vespucci Airport: $35
- Private Arrival Transfer from Florence Peretola Airport FLR to Florence City: $35
- Private Departure Transfer from Florence City to Florence Peretola Airport FLR: $35
- Private Business Transfer from Florence City Center to Peretola Airport (FLR): $36
- Private Business Transfer from Peretola Airport (FLR) to Florence City Center: $36
- Private Airport Transfer: Florence Airport (FLR) to Florence: $36
- Private Airport Transfer: from Florence to Florence Airport (FLR): $36
Is it cheaper to fly into Portofino or Florence?
Prices for flights to both Florence and Portofino change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
Food
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Food Meals for one dayPortofino €94Florence €25
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portofino
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Portofino.
- Private cooking class at the old mill in Portofino: $261
Typical Food prices in Florence
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Florence:
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Panini Sandwich€6.50
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Casual Lunch (for Two)€17
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Florence
For Florence, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Italian Fresh Pasta Private Online Cooking Class: $27
- Virtual Cooking Class: Bruschetta & Tiramisù: $40
- Vegetarian pasta cooking class and dinner in Florence: $54
- Cooking with Kids 3-Hour Experience: $60
- Pasta Cooking Experience in Florence: $62
- Handmade Pasta and Dessert Cooking Class with Dinner: $62
- Handmade Tagliatelle cooking class in Florence: $72
- Pizza Dinner and Opera Arias Concert: $74
- Food Tour in 3-Hour Walking Tour: $76
- 4-Course Cooking Experience in Florence: $78
- Tuscan Cooking Course with Dinner: $78
- Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class at a Farmhouse in Tuscany: $79
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Portofino €22Florence €24
Tours and Activities in Portofino
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Portofino are as follows:
- Easy Kayak Tour to Portofino with Optional Snorkeling: $51
- Half-Day Private Hike Adventure to Portofino and San Fruttuoso: $235
- Paddle Boarding Experience in Portofino: $61
- Portofino Kayak Tour: $60
- Portofino Private Walking Tour: $230
- Portofino Stand Up Paddleboard Experience: $51
- Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure Small Group Tour with Local Dirver: $235
- Portofino private boat tour: $1,058
- San Fruttuoso Bay: Half-Day Hiking Tour with Lunch: $170
- Snorkel Tour in Paraggi Bay: $44
Typical Entertainment prices in Florence
For Florence, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:
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Admission to Uffizi€11
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Phone Booking Fee for Uffizi€4.00
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Firenze Card (for Two)€100
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Audioguides at Uffizi (for Two)€20
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Giotto's Tower Entrance Fee€6.00
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Boboli Gardens Entrance Fee€7.00
Tours and Activities in Florence
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Florence.
- - Leonardo Interactive Museum® Entrance Ticket: $8.71
- Leonardo Da Vinci Museum Entrance Ticket: $8.71
- Florence Highlights Virtual Guided Tour (Times in EST): $11
- Reserved Entry Ticket to the Boboli Gardens: $14
- Florence Duomo Reserved Time Entrance Tickets: $14
- Florence Animal Art Treasure Hunt Family Tour: $17
- Skip the Line: Medici Chapels Ticket: $19
- Skip the Line: Florence Accademia Gallery and Michelangelo's David Ticket: $24
- Virtual Tour - Wine in Tuscany - History, art and curiosities... How to appreciate it: $25
- Accademia Gallery Fast-Track Ticket: $26
- Skip the Line: Palazzo Vecchio Museum Ticket with Tower & Battlement Access: $26
- Medici-Themed Bike Tour: $26
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayPortofino €13Florence €15
Typical Alcohol prices in Florence
Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Florence from other travelers:
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Glass of Chianti€4.20
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Bottle of Wine€7.50
Sample the Local Flavors in Florence
Also in Florence, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- 60-Minute Wine Tasting Tour: $45
- Chianti: Authentic Wine Tasting Experience from Florence: $52
- Sunset Sightseeing Tour and Wine Tasting: $62
- Florence Sunset Wine Tour: $64
- Pienza and Montepulciano Full-Day Wine Tour: $79
- From Tuscany Wine Tasting Full-Day Trip: $87
- From Small Group Wine Tasting Tour to Tuscany: $90
- Florence in 3 Wines: Exclusive Wine Tasting with an Expert & Food Pairing: $136
- From Tuscany by E-Bike with Lunch and Wine Tasting: $147
- Private Ramble Through The Rolling Hills Of Chianti (6 h) + Lunch & Wine tasting: $174
- Just a Taste but What a Taste - Half Day Wine Tour in Tuscany (Private Tour): $180
- Florence Wine Tasting and Tuscan Lunch in a Vintage Fiat 500: $187
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Portofino and Florence, we can see that Portofino is more expensive. And not only is Florence much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Florence would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Florence and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Portofino would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Portofino than you might in Florence.
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